"For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead..." Romans 1:20

Friday, January 6, 2012

Fear vs. Love

Have you ever noticed that you do what you do either out of fear or out of love? If you pay attention you'll realize you can substitute the words fear/afraid for such words as upset, angry, distrust, hopeless, or sad. Likewise, you can substitute the word love for words/thoughts such as hope, wonderful, happy. Alan Cohen in "Deep Breath of Life" points out that, "Fear tells us that we are small, powerless, and separate. Love affirms that we are great, creative, and connected." In the photo below all three guys got on that water plume roller coaster because they loved the thrill of the ride. But notice the two younger guys' faces when the ride became a little less predictable.

I don't think they stopped loving being on the ride, but they were caught unaware and suddenly it felt threatening. They were restrained in their seats and so came through it unscathed. In life, however, we are free to move about and that is when we get into trouble. We say and do things that can be hurtful not only to ourselves but others as we try to defend/protect ourselves. Love, on the other hand, that is rooted and grounded in God's love, gives us everything we need. God does not restrain us (free will), but His love doesconstrain us to trust Him. We are freed to be creative and giving rather than restricted and clutching. Life will become an adventure where even when on the roller coaster of life we can let go and enjoy the thrill of just being alive. Cohen asks, "Which voice do you choose to be your guide?"